Get Smart: Know When Antibiotics Work

What Everyone Should Know and Do
Snort. Sniffle. Sneeze. No Antibiotics Please!

Are you aware that colds,
flu, most sore throats, and bronchitis are caused by viruses? Did you know that antibiotics do not help fight viruses? It's true. Plus, taking antibiotics when you have a virus may do more harm than good. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.

If You Have a Cold or Flu, Antibiotics Won't Work For You!

Taking antibiotics for viral infections, such as a cold, cough, the flu, or most bronchitis, will not:

Cure the infections;

Keep other individuals from catching the illness; or

Help you feel better.

What Can You Do To Protect Yourself Or Your Child?

When you use antibiotics appropriately, you do the best for your health, your family's health, and the health of those around you. "We want Americans to keep their families and communities healthy by getting smart about the proper use of antibiotics," said Lauri Hicks, D.O., medical director of CDC's Get Smart campaign.